"Terrorism and Counterterrorism in Africa" the Focus of Second Annual MonTREP conference

Student volunteers and participants enjoy a break during the MonTREP conference.

March 7, 2014 - 12:00am

The Monterey Terrorism Research and Education Program at the Monterey Institute hosted its second annual student-driven conference on March 6-7. This year the focus was on terrorism and counter-terrorism in Africa with several panel discussions with noted experts in the field as well as students, and a keynote address by former Congressman Jim Kolbe.

Over a hundred people participated in the conference, held at the Institute’s Irvine Auditorium. On Thursday, March 6, five Monterey Institute students presented on a student panel moderated by Colonel Danial Pick. On Friday, March 7, Brig. Gen. Howard kicked off the conference, which started with a panel discussion on “Terrorism in Africa: a Regional Perspective” before moving on to a discussion about “Counterterrorism in Africa: a Whole of Government Approach.” After lunch there was a Monterey Threat Analysis Platform (MTAP) demonstration before the discussion turned to “Illicit Trafficking in Africa.” The conference ended with a closing keynote address by former Arizona Congressman Jim Kolbe. The student organizers all agreed that the conference was exceeding expectations and that it was a great learning experience.